Unraveling the Mystery: Who is the Redhead in Oblivion?
For many gamers who ventured into the vast and immersive world of *The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion*, a particular character often sparks curiosity and discussion: the striking redhead. This question, "Who is the redhead in Oblivion?", can actually refer to a few prominent individuals, each with their own significance to the unfolding narrative. Let's dive deep into identifying these fiery-haired figures and their roles in the epic saga.
The Most Likely Candidate: Countess Arriana Valga
When most players ponder "Who is the redhead in Oblivion?", they are most likely thinking of Countess Arriana Valga. She is a central figure in the early stages of the main questline and plays a crucial role in motivating the player character's journey.
Who is Countess Arriana Valga?
- Title: Countess of Skingrad
- Appearance: Distinctive red hair, often seen in regal attire.
- Location: Primarily found within the Castle Skingrad and its grounds.
- Role in the Main Quest: Countess Valga is one of the key individuals you encounter as you seek out the lost heirs of Uriel Septim VII. She is initially a staunch supporter of the Emperor and actively participates in the efforts to protect the Empire. Her family has strong ties to the Blades, the ancient order of protectors.
- Significance: She provides vital information and aid to the player, helping to guide them on their path to finding the Emperor's illegitimate children. Her interactions with the player often involve quests related to the defense of Skingrad and the broader struggle against the Daedric invasion. She also has a personal stake in the events, as her son, Count Edouard Jans, is involved in a plot that the player may need to uncover.
Countess Valga's strong personality and her position of authority make her a memorable character. Her red hair, a striking contrast to the often muted tones of armor and political intrigue, further solidifies her in the player's memory.
Another Notable Redhead: Falanu Hlaalu
While Countess Valga is often the primary association with "the redhead," another significant character with red hair that players might encounter is Falanu Hlaalu.
Who is Falanu Hlaalu?
- Race: Dark Elf (Dunmer)
- Appearance: Possesses characteristic red hair common among some Dark Elves.
- Location: Resides in Bravil, often found in or around her home.
- Role in the Main Quest: Falanu Hlaalu is another of Uriel Septim VII's illegitimate children that the player must locate. Her storyline involves a rather tumultuous personal life, and the player's interaction with her is crucial to progressing the main quest.
- Significance: Finding and securing Falanu is a necessary step in gathering all the heirs. Her personal circumstances in Bravil can be challenging, and the player might need to help her out of a difficult situation to ensure her safety and cooperation.
Falanu Hlaalu represents a different facet of the Emperor's legacy, and her red hair, like Countess Valga's, helps to distinguish her in the game's diverse cast of characters. Her questline offers a glimpse into the lives of those who are indirectly tied to the Imperial family.
The Broader Context: Red Hair in Cyrodiil
It's also worth noting that red hair, while not the most common hair color in the game's lore for all races, is certainly present among various inhabitants of Cyrodiil. Many NPCs, particularly some Nords and even some Imperial characters, can be found with red hair. However, these individuals generally do not hold the same narrative weight as the two prominent figures discussed above.
The prominence of Countess Arriana Valga and Falanu Hlaalu as key figures with red hair in the main questline makes them the most likely answers to the question, "Who is the redhead in Oblivion?" Their roles are integral to the overarching narrative, and their distinctive appearances ensure they remain memorable characters for players long after they've put down their controllers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How important is Countess Arriana Valga to the main quest?
Countess Arriana Valga is extremely important. She is one of the first significant figures you meet who is deeply involved with the Blades and the safety of the Empire. She provides crucial information and resources that guide you in your quest to find the lost heirs and ultimately save Tamriel from the Daedric invasion.
Why does Falanu Hlaalu have red hair?
Falanu Hlaalu, being a Dark Elf (Dunmer), can have red hair due to her racial heritage. Red hair is a natural, though not universally present, characteristic among Dunmer. It's a common feature in their depicted appearances in the Elder Scrolls lore.
Are there other notable characters with red hair in Oblivion?
While Countess Arriana Valga and Falanu Hlaalu are the most prominent redheads tied to the main questline, there are other NPCs with red hair scattered throughout the world of Oblivion. However, none of them have the same level of narrative significance or are as likely to be the "redhead" players recall when asking that question.

